Hapoel Haifa Coach Silverstein Puzzled by Second-Half Performance Drop

Hapoel Haifa opened their Israeli Premier League season with a goalless draw against Hapoel Tel Aviv, a result that left coach Haim Silverstein expressing significant disappointment. Silverstein lamented his team's dominant first half, during which they controlled the game but lacked a finishing touch. The team's performance declined sharply after halftime, a phenomenon Silverstein admitted he cannot explain.

"I have no explanation for the drop in ability after the break," Silverstein stated. "It's like a house of cards; you miss here and there, the opponent gains momentum, and you're pushed back. The disappointment for me is the extreme difference between the halves." He praised goalkeeper Yoav Jerafi, who saved a penalty, calling his performance crucial and stating it would have been "cruel" to leave without any points.

Looking ahead, Silverstein indicated that while finishing in the top six would be an excellent achievement for Hapoel Haifa, the immediate focus is on playing good football and regaining fan support. He also commented on player Shayke Keita, noting his potential for growth and the overall improvement of the team's performance.

Goalkeeper Jerafi echoed the sentiment that the team played well in the first half and created chances. He described his penalty save as instinctual and expressed happiness that it helped secure a clean sheet, especially after a red card complicated matters in the second half. Jerafi acknowledged the team's past successes and expressed confidence for the current season, anticipating many tough matches ahead.